During the blasting, brief rolling roadblocks will be in effect. Law enforcement vehicles will pace traffic in each direction to create a buffer zone separating the traffic from the blasting location, so the work can safely occur.

Crews will inspect the interstate for rock and debris before allowing traffic to flow freely again. The rolling roadblocks are expected to last for no more than five minutes at a time.

The blasting is necessary to prepare for construction of the new High Point Road interchange with the Greensboro Western Loop.

The blasts will break up the hard bedrock that is close to the surface. Once the rock is fractured into smaller pieces, it can be removed with trackhoes, and the road base can then be built.

The blasts will not emit more than a low popping sound and should not be felt at nearby homes or businesses.

NCDOT reminds motorists to stay alert and use extreme caution in the area.